Micro-Implantation During The Dental Restoration Process
If you are looking to acquire a full-mouth restoration with the help of dental implants, then you likely do not want to wait until the initial healing period is over before you can bite down and chew your food. In this case, you can speak with your dentist about the use of micro-implants. Keep reading to learn about them and how they work.
What Are Micro-Implants?
Micro-implants are quite a bit different from the general or typical implant devices. One big difference is the fact that the implant roots are considered temporary and are not meant to remain in the mouth long-term. They are simply anchorage devices that are used to hold a partial or full denture in place just above the dental ridge so the more secure implants have time to heal and attach to the jaw bone.
Micro-implants are extremely small and measure less than 10 millimeters in diameter, and the width is about half of this measurement. Basically, you can compare the size of the root with that of a toothpick. These implants are sharp and tapered on the end to allow your dentist to screw them directly into the jaw. The smaller diameter allows for this, where the other types of root devices need a pilot hole.
How Do They Work With Traditional Implants?
The micro-implants work together with the permanent implants and both can be placed in the jaw at the same time. The micro-sized ones will be slipped in between the larger root structures. This requires the evaluation of the jaw and extremely accurate spacing for correct use.
The very tip of each implant root sits above the gum line and each will have its own small head. The head is where the implant connects to the partial or full denture. Keep in mind that the gums will be sore after the initial fitting process, so make sure you speak with your dental professional about the use of rinses and other techniques to keep the pain at bay.
As the micro-implants hold the denture in place and allow you to eat normally, the larger roots will go through the healing and osseointegration process. This can take up to 3 to 6 months to complete and your dentist may use bone density tests or x-rays to determine the progress. Once the dentist feels as though it is safe for you to place full pressure on your implants, the micro ones are removed. You are then fitted with crowns or more permanent dentures.
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